Slutsky: This Victory is Dedicated to All Shenhua Fans, the Home Atmosphere Today was Fantastic

August 17th, 19:35, in the 23rd round of the Chinese Super League, Shanghai Shenhua defeated Shanghai Port 3-1. After the game, Shenhua’s head coach, Slutsky, attended the press conference.

Slutsky: “Firstly, I am very happy that our team could achieve this victory in the derby. The situation on the pitch changed somewhat before and after the red card. However, today we created and missed a lot of opportunities, and also missed a penalty. I want to especially thank the Shenhua fans who came to the stadium today. The home atmosphere was fantastic, and it is the first time in my career that I have seen so many fans cheering for us. I am very moved. Today’s victory, I dedicate to all the Shenhua fans.”

Reporter: “Could you please explain the timing of bringing on Yu Hanchao and Xie Pengfei?”
Slutsky replied: “At halftime, I warned the players that with our numerical advantage, we must not rush, but try to keep possession of the ball as much as possible. We also knew that as the game approached its end, the opponents’ fitness would significantly decrease, because under such weather conditions and intensity of play, it is difficult for a team to maintain the same level of intensity throughout. The players we brought on today, Ai Di, Wang Haijian, Xie Pengfei, all performed very well, particularly Yu Hanchao, who contributed one goal and one assist.”

Reporter: “What are your thoughts on the next six league games?”
Slutsky: “Our focus now will be on the next FA Cup match. Through this victory, we have narrowed the gap with the top of the table to two points. We will continue to challenge for the top spot in the league, and I believe anything is possible.”

Reporter: “As one of the older players in the team, what is the secret to Yu Hanchao maintaining his form? What exemplary role does he play for younger teammates?”

Slutsky: “Yu Hanchao is the oldest player in our team, but every training session, Yu Hanchao performs like a young lad, demanding a lot from himself and being meticulous, even though he has already achieved a great deal. Besides his performance in training, Yu Hanchao is also outstanding in terms of his character. I believe he is an indispensable member of our team. He is not only a role model for our young players but for the entire team.”